Agoraphobia and Dependent Personality Disorder

Before agoraphobia was better understood by mental health professionals, agoraphobics were sometimes misdiagnosed with dependent personality disorder. Due to the fear of being alone, some agoraphobics exhibit traits that are characteristic of the dependent personality.

However, in the case of agoraphobia, the apparent dependence on having a safe person close by stems from the fear of not having someone to help them in the case of a panic attack or emergency. Therefore, the agoraphobic’s irrational fear of being alone is a product of the phobia and is not a stable personality trait.

Article Source: http://www.agoraphobia.net

Stephen Price is a recovered agoraphobic with a master’s degree in psychology. His informational website on agoraphobia featuring a free newsletter can be found at: www.agoraphobia.ws

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